Παρασκευή, 16 Αυγούστου 2013

Dear Professor Matsas:

Though you don’t know me, I am writing you today because I have heard about your case and would like to express my deepest sympathies for the predicament which has befallen you and my gratitude for your actions. It is generally known, around the world, the kind of dangers neo-fascist parties such as Χρυσή Αυγή pose. Their rhetoric of hate and xenophobic policy positions must be countered by individuals of conscious and action such as yourself before we are faced once again with the nightmare of repression, murder and disregard for human life.

The opinion of the world has long recognized the ability to voice one’s concern as a fundamental right of humans. The far right’s attempt to silence you so that they can pursue their violent andhateful agenda serves as the most perfect evidence in support of protecting the freedom of expression. It was not by public debate the Nazis were able to slaughter tens of millions and nearly eradicate an entire race. Nor was it through public discourse that the Τάγματα Ασφαλείας where permitted to kill, rape and steal with impunity. It is easy to see how the absence of free expression contributed to these and countless other atrocities throughout history.

It is regrettable and a gross injustice that you should be persecuted for having the courage to speak out on behalf of human decency and the protection of the vulnerable. By doing so, however, you have done a service to your country and all those who seek justice and peace, throughout the world. For this reason, I commend you and am happy to count you as my comrade.

I would like to close by saying that when you make the kind of stand you have made, you do not stand alone. I stand with you as do countless numbers of our brothers and sisters from all the corners of the globe. I wish you the best and hope for a just and speedy conclusion to this farce.

Yours in solidarity,

Dr. Anthony SquiersDepartment of Political ScienceWestern Michigan University